Title: Mirror Reflection - Teaching Design for First Graders
Introduction:
- Start the lesson by asking the students if they have ever looked into a mirror.
- Explain that mirrors can reflect our image back to us and that we can see ourselves in them.
- Mention that mirrors are common in our day-to-day lives, such as in our homes, bathrooms, and even in cars.
Objective:
The objective of this lesson is to help first-grade students understand the concept of reflection and how mirrors work.
Materials Needed:
- Mirrors (one for each student)
- Chart paper and markers
- Pictures or illustrations depicting mirror reflections
Lesson Plan:
Step 1: What is a Mirror? (5 minutes)
- Show the students a mirror and explain that it is a shiny surface that can reflect our image.
- Hold the mirror in front of the students, and let them take turns looking at themselves in the mirror. Encourage them to describe what they see.
- Ask the students questions about the mirror, such as its shape, size, and what it is made of.
Step 2: How Mirrors Reflect (10 minutes)
- Show the students pictures or illustrations depicting mirror reflections.
- Explain that when light hits a mirror, it bounces off and creates a reflection.
- Use a diagram on the chart paper to demonstrate how light reflects off the mirror.
- Provide examples, such as when we see ourselves in the mirror or when we see objects reflected in the mirror.
Step 3: Mirror Reflection Activities (15 minutes)
- Divide the students into pairs or small groups.
- Give each group a mirror and ask them to explore how the mirror reflects their images.
- Encourage the students to experiment with different poses and movements while looking at the mirror.
- After a few minutes, gather the students and ask them to share their observations. Discuss questions like: Do you see your reflection when you move the mirror? Can you see objects behind you in the mirror?
Step 4: Mirror Reflection Art (15 minutes)
- Explain to the students that they will create a mirror reflection art piece.
- Provide each student with a piece of white paper and ask them to draw a self-portrait.
- Once they have completed the drawing, give them an aluminum foil square slightly larger than their drawing.
- Instruct the students to place the aluminum foil over their drawing, with the shiny side up, and lightly press the foil onto the paper.
- Help them smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles in the foil.
- As they press down, the reflection of their drawing will appear on the foil.
- Display the students' artworks around the classroom.
Conclusion:
- Review the concept of mirror reflection, emphasizing that mirrors reflect light to create images.
- Ask the students to share what they have learned about mirrors and reflection.
- Encourage them to continue observing reflections in their everyday lives.
Assessment:
- Observe the students' participation and engagement during the mirror activities.
- Review the mirror reflection art pieces to assess their understanding of the concept.
Extension Activities:
- Bring in different types of mirrors, such as curved mirrors or concave mirrors, and explore how they create distorted reflections.
- Read books or stories with mirror-related themes, such as "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs."
- Have a discussion about the importance of mirrors in our society, such as in fashion or interior design.